Townsville, Queensland

Townsville

The weather in Townsville, Australia is one of this city's greatest assets. Located about 3 hours' drive north of Mackay in tropical North Queensland, it is blessed with glorious sunny days all year round and a relatively low rainfall.

Originally the 'Capital of the North', Townsville has some lovely early 20th century architecture. Bars, restaurants and clubs now occupy many of these lovely, old buildings in the Flinders Street entertainment district.

On a Sunday morning, make your way down to the Flinders Street mall and see it transformed into a Cotter's Market, where the people of Townsville turn out in droves to sample the local produce and wares. Then it's time to hit the Strand!

The Townsville Council has gone to great expense to revamp this waterfront area and with its water playgrounds, rock pool, sandy beaches and promenade; it is a great place for lunch or just a beer and to watch the world go by. Don't get too comfy though; there's plenty more to see, so make sure you grab yourself a Townsville map and start exploring!

Your Townsville holiday would not be complete without a visit to beautiful Magnetic Island. The Magnetic Island ferry takes only 20 minutes to reach its destination. While you're there, make sure you explore Magnetic Island's Nelly Bay and Horseshoe Bay and take advantage of some of Australia's best beaches and Townsville's perfect weather.

Magnetic Island is not the only Australian island accessible from Townsville. Mission Beach is just a 3-hour drive north and is the embarkation point for both Dunk Island and Bedarra Island ferries.